Crusaders team named for historic first match against Fijian Drua in Christchurch

The Crusaders are back home and preparing to play their penultimate match of the DHL Super Rugby Pacific regular season at Orangetheory Stadium on Friday night. Head Coach Scott Robertson has named his side for their inaugural clash with Fijian Drua, and it includes a number of changes from the team that ran out against the Brumbies in Canberra. 

George Bower (rested) and Codie Taylor (rib cartilage sprain) will sit out this weekend's game, meaning prop Finlay Brewis and hooker Ricky Jackson both have an opportunity to start in the front row. 20-year-old Zach Gallagher returns at lock to face the Fijian Drua, which sees Captain Scott Barrett move to the blindside. Tom Christie will start at openside flanker, while Ethan Blackadder completes the loose forward trio with a shift to No. 8. 

Richie Mo'unga, David Havili and Will Jordan will also sit out this Round 14 match, meaning Fergus Burke takes charge of the backline at first five-eighth, Jack Goodhue shifts infield to second-five eighth and Braydon Ennor - in what will be his 50th game for the Crusaders - moves to a starting role at Centre. Chay Fihaki will wear the 15 jersey in Jordan's absence, while Leicester Fainga'anuku returns to the left wing and George Bridge will provide cover on the bench. 

Kick off in the Crusaders match against Fijian Drua is 7:05pm, Friday 20th May at Orangetheory Stadium in Christchurch. The match will be televised live on Sky Sport.